Phone Calls

Why would a customer try and schedule a call with me?

If a customer sends you an invitation to chat on the phone, that means they’ve reviewed your writer profile and they’re looking to discuss a potential job request or upcoming project.

How do I accept a call request?

To view upcoming calls, click on the Call Requests tab at the top of your page.

Next, click the View Times button on the right side of the call.

In the window that appears, you'll be able to select a time that works well for you.

After you pick a time and accept the request, you’ll be provided with a direct line to a conference call and a pin number that will allow you to access the call.

How should I prepare for a call?

When you accept a call request, try to prepare a few questions that will help you better understand the assignment. Specifically, you should try to ask the customer questions that focus on the following:

The topic and key objective of the post

Examples:

Do you already have an exact topic in mind?

Are there any key points that must be discussed in the assignment?

The ideal tone and voice of the piece

Examples:

Should this piece be written in first, second, or third person?

Does this piece need to be written with a more formal tone, or is it alright for it to sound a bit more casual?

In addition, always feel free to ask if the customer has any examples that they can provide

Potential topics that should be avoided

Examples:

Is there any type of material or discussion that the writer should avoid?

Do you have any competitors I should avoid mentioning when writing this article?

To go the extra mile, spend a few minutes researching the company before you join them on the call. If you spend a few minutes reviewing their company website and blog, you’ll be better informed about what kind of assignment the customer needs, and you’ll be able to make sure the call is smooth and effective.

When can I call into the conference line?

The conference line will activate 5 minutes before the call is scheduled. In other words, if your call is at 1pm, the conference line will open at 12:55pm.

Can I have a recording of my call after it’s completed?

I’m afraid it is not possible to receive a recording of your phone call after it is completed. Instead, make sure you are taking notes throughout the conversation as needed.

Can I suggest call times to a customer?

It is not possible to suggest call times to a customer.

If a customer has provided times but they don’t work for you, there’s no need to worry. Just decline the invitation and let them know what times you would prefer. If the customer is able to speak at those times, they’ll follow up with a new invite shortly.

Can I opt out of receiving phone call invitations?

If you would prefer not to allow customers to send you call requests, you can remove this option in your account.

First, go to the Profile page and click on the Public Info tab. From there, uncheck the box titled "Allow customers to find me in the marketplace."

Then, click Save at the bottom of the page to confirm. Customers will no longer be able to send job requests to your account.

Note: if you do not allow customers to find your profile in the marketplace, you will also be unable to receive job requests.

What time zone will my call be in?

The time displayed in your call invitation will always be based on the time zone you are currently in.

For example, if you are currently in California, then all call invitations will appear in Pacific Time (UTC-08).

What should I do if no one joins the call?

If you call the conference line and a customer does not join the call, please wait at least 5 minutes before hanging up.